Couple Arrested for Attempting to Sell Infant for Beer and Cash

In a shocking incident, a couple in Arkansas was arrested for allegedly attempting to sell their 2-month-old baby in exchange for a six-pack of beer and a $1,000 cashier's check. The incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the welfare of the child.

Shocking Revelation: Parents Tried to Barter Their Infant for Alcohol and Money

Couple's Desperate Attempt to Relinquish Parental Responsibilities

The parents, Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, were arrested on September 21st after the manager of a campground in Benton County contacted the local sheriff's department. According to the court documents, the couple had written a letter granting custody of their baby to Cody Martin in exchange for money. The letter, signed by Urban and Ehlers, included a disclaimer stating that there would be no changing their minds and that the new caretakers were not to contact them again.

Intervention and Rescue of the Infant

When the responding troopers arrived at the scene, they found the baby in need of medical attention and immediately called emergency medical services. The infant was then taken to a local hospital for evaluation. The child is now in the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services, ensuring their safety and well-being.

Corroborating Evidence and Witness Accounts

The affidavit obtained by the authorities revealed that multiple witnesses corroborated the attempted adoption. A deputy also reportedly obtained a cellphone video of Urban and Ehlers signing the contract with the man, Cody Martin, who was trying to purchase the baby.Furthermore, another witness, a resident of the campground identified as Ricky Crawford, had earlier in the day visited Urban and Ehlers and offered to take the baby for the night in exchange for several cans of beer. Crawford, who appeared heavily intoxicated, confirmed that he had taken the baby from the couple and brought the infant to Martin.

Disturbing Condition of the Infant

Another witness told the authorities that they had noticed a strong ammonia and fecal odor coming from the baby, who had a dirty diaper. After changing the baby, the witness observed a severe diaper rash, blisters, and swelling, which were documented with photographs.

Alleged Reasons for Relinquishment

According to the affidavit, Martin told detectives that he spoke to Ehlers about the reason for the potential adoption, and she said "it was not working having three dogs and a baby." This suggests that the couple may have been overwhelmed with the responsibilities of caring for their infant and their other pets.

Attempted Transaction and Lack of Payment

The court documents state that Martin told detectives he drafted the agreement for Urban and Ehlers to sign, but clarified that no money was exchanged at that time. He said he would arrange for a cashier's check for $1,000, but the couple never received this payment.

Legal Consequences for the Couple

The couple was arrested and face felony charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to negotiate the relinquishment of a minor for adoption. Urban was released on a $5,000 bond on September 24th, while Ehlers remains in custody on a $30,000 bail.This disturbing incident has raised serious concerns about the well-being of the infant and the actions of the parents. The authorities are now working to ensure the child's safety and provide the necessary support and resources to address this complex situation.